Govt tightens rules on AI-generated, deepfake content; mandates faster takedown of flagged material
The Hindu
Government enforces stricter rules for online platforms on AI-generated content, mandating quick takedowns and clear labeling.
The government on Tuesday (February 10, 2026) brought in stricter obligations for online platforms on handling AI-generated and synthetic content, including deepfakes, saying platforms such as X and Instagram must take down any such content flagged by a competent authority or courts within three hours.
The government notified amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, that formally define AI-generated and synthetic content. The new rules will come into force from February 20, 2026.
The amendments define “audio, visual or audio-visual information” and “synthetically-generated information”, covering AI-created or altered content that appears real or authentic. Routine editing, accessibility improvements, and good-faith educational or design work are excluded from this definition.
Key changes include treating synthetic content as ‘information’. AI-generated content will be treated on par with other information for determining unlawful acts under IT rules.
Platforms must act on government or court orders within three hours, reduced from 36 hours, according to a gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
User grievance redressal timelines have also been shortened.
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Government enforces stricter rules for online platforms on AI-generated content, mandating quick takedowns and clear labeling.
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